Biratnagar Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more in Biratnagar, Nepal's industrial and commercial hub in the Eastern Tarai region.


Biratnagar, the second-largest city in Nepal, is an industrial and commercial hub located in the Eastern Tarai region of the country. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage, Biratnagar has become one of the must-visit destinations in Nepal. In this comprehensive travel guide, we present to you everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip to Biratnagar.

Introduction to Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including Mahant Thakur, Madhesi, and Tharu, among others. The city is famous for its handicrafts, especially woven baskets, traditional Nepali dresses, and wrought-iron works. It also boasts of local markets that offer a variety of goods, such as clothes, souvenirs, and street food.

List of Places to Visit in Biratnagar

Biratnagar is home to many cultural and natural attractions that are sure to captivate visitors. Here’s a list of the top places to visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: A perfect place for nature lovers, this wildlife reserve is home to wild buffalos, swamp deer, and water birds.
  • Basantapur Durbar Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Basantapur Durbar Square is home to various temples and palaces built by the Malla dynasty.
  • Biratnagar Jute Mill: It is the country’s largest jute mill and offers free tours to visitors.
  • Buddha Subba Temple: A revered temple of the Limbu community who worship their patron saint Buddha Subba.

Natural Attractions of Biratnagar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Barah Kshetra: It is a sacred forest and pilgrimage site located on the bank of the Koshi River.
  • Koshi Barrage: It is an engineering marvel and one of the longest dams in Asia, built to control the floodwaters of the Koshi River.
  • Haat Khola Park: A perfect place for a picnic, this park has a scenic waterfall and lush green forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Biratnagar

Biratnagar has numerous hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas and the Koshi River valley. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Basantapur to Lubhoo trail
  • Chatara to Koshi Tappu trail
  • Bhedetar to Chisapani trail

Best Things to Do in Biratnagar: Activities and Tours

Biratnagar offers a host of exciting activities and tours to make your trip memorable. Here are some of the best things you can do.

  • Take a jungle safari at the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
  • Visit the Basantapur Durbar Square and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Nepal.
  • Explore the city’s markets and indulge in some retail therapy.
  • Take a bike tour of the city and explore the different areas at your own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Biratnagar

If you have a week to spend in Biratnagar, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

  • Arrive in Biratnagar and check into your hotel.
  • Visit the Basantapur Durbar Square and explore the temples and palaces.
  • Try some local cuisines and shop for souvenirs.

Day 2: Wildlife Safari

  • Take a trip to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and go on a jungle safari.
  • Visit the Tamor River Barrage and see the local fishermen in action.

Day 3: Nature Walk and Picnic

  • Take a morning walk in Haat Khola Park and witness the sunrise over the Himalayas.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfall and spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing.

Day 4: Visit to Jute Mill and Sightseeing

  • Visit Biratnagar Jute Mill and learn about the production process of jute.
  • Visit the Buddha Subba Temple and witness the cultural and religious practices of the Limbu community.

Day 5: Hiking/Biking

  • Go on a day-long hiking or biking tour and explore the hidden gems of Biratnagar.

Day 6: Rest and Relaxation

  • Spend the day relaxing in your hotel or visit a spa for some rejuvenation therapy.

Day 7: Departure

  • Check out of your hotel and depart for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of cuisines, including Nepali, Indian, and Chinese. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sel Roti: A traditional Nepali sweet bread made of rice flour and sugar.
  • Chiura and Aloo Tama: Beaten rice served with potato and bamboo shoot curry.
  • Dal-Bhat: The staple Nepali dish of lentil soup and steamed rice.

Local Beverages

  • Raksi: A local alcoholic beverage made of fermented rice or millet.
  • Chhang: A traditional Nepali alcoholic beverage made of fermented rice.

Where to Stay in Biratnagar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Biratnagar has a range of options for accommodations, including luxury hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay are:

  • Hotel Namaskar
  • Hotel Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp
  • Ratna Hotel and Lodge

What to Buy in Biratnagar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: Woven baskets, traditional Nepali dresses, and wrought-iron works.
  • Tea: Biratnagar is known for its tea plantations, and you can buy loose tea leaves or pre-packaged teas.
  • Local Spices: Biratnagar is famous for its spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Local Culture and Customs of Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a multi-ethnic society, and the local customs and cultures reflect the diversity of the place. The city celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Holi. The citizens of Biratnagar are friendly and hospitable, and it is customary to greet others with a “Namaste.”

Best Time to Visit Biratnagar

The best time to visit Biratnagar is from October to February when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, if you want to witness the local festivals, visit during the summer months, from March to June.

Do’s and Don’ts of Biratnagar

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious places.
  • Try the local cuisine and interact with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Do not bring or consume drugs.
  • Do not litter the streets.
  • Do not engage in activities that disrespect the local traditions and culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a safe city, but it is advisable to take precautions such as:

  • Carry your belongings safely.
  • Avoid going out at night alone.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Biratnagar

Biratnagar has adequate healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Make sure to carry necessary medications and follow basic hygiene practices such as washing hands, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing.

Getting to Biratnagar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Biratnagar is well-connected by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Biratnagar

Biratnagar Airport is the nearest airport and is located approximately 6 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Biratnagar

The city is connected to other major cities in Nepal via a network of buses and mini-buses.

Other Options

The city is also accessible by train via the Jogbani railway station on the Indian side.

How to Get Around in Biratnagar

Biratnagar is a small city, and walking is the best way to explore the local areas. However, if you want to go further, you can hire a taxi, rickshaw, or bike.

Where to Go Next from Biratnagar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Biratnagar is a gateway to other popular tourist destinations in Nepal, such as:

  • Dharan: A charming town located 35 km from Biratnagar and is known for its Dharan bazaar and Budhasubba Temple.
  • Ilam: Known for its tea estates, Ilam is a hill town located 160 km from Biratnagar.
  • Kakarbhitta: A border town located 100 km from Biratnagar, and serves as the entry point to Bhutan.

Conclusion

Biratnagar is a city brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty. It has something for everyone, from temple visits to wildlife safaris, and from local cuisine to handicrafts. With this comprehensive travel guide, we hope you can make the most out of your trip to Biratnagar, Nepal.